The SUNY Oneonta men's soccer team overcame the weather and being a man down today defeating host Stevens Institute 2-0.  The win for the Red Dragons made it 2-for-2 to start the season.
 
"For 50 minutes it was a good contest," said Head Coach Iain Byrne.  "Once we went down to 10 men, we got pinned back, but showed determination in holding on for the win.  Our three senior captains were inspirational today and led from the front."
 
Freshman Roberto Ventura (Brentwood/Brentwood) opened the scoring for Oneonta converting a penalty kick in the 16^th minute.
 
The No. 14 Red Dragons increased its lead six minutes later when senior Austin Hughes (Clifton Park/Shenendehowa) scored on a nifty crossing shot from the left corner of the 18-yard box.  Hughes received the pass from Luke Osovski (Endicott/Maine Endwell) before dribbling into the box before getting his shot off.
 
After the two early markers, a steady, driving rain prevented either team from establishing any offensive consistency. Once the rain cleared and play resumed in the second half, Oneonta was hit with a red card for a dangerous play leaving them with 10 players for the final 36 minutes.
 
The Ducks seized control of the play, keeping the ball in the offensive zone. However, despite playing a man up, and connecting for 12 shots, Stevens was unable to find the back of the net.
 
Junior keeper Nicholas Giordano (East Northport/Commack) made nine saves including six in the second half to record his second straight clean sheet.
 
The Red Dragons will return home for its next match this Friday versus St. Lawrence in the second game of the 2017 Oneonta Mayor's Cup Tournament.  Kickoff is scheduled for 4pm on Red Dragon Field.